Common Handgun Actions

There are four common types of handgun actions.

Revolver

Semi-automatic pistol

Break-action pistol

Bolt-action handgun

Handguns generally have short barrels. Because of these lighter, shorter barrels, it is more difficult to maintain safe control of a handgun than it is with a shotgun or rifle with a longer barrel. Be extremely careful when handling handguns!

The red outlines indicate where safeties are typically located on a handgun.